In God’s/Heaven’s name

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interjection

Used to express surprise, shock, or confusion.

In God's name, how did you manage to sneak up on me like that?
Visual representation of "in God’s/Heaven’s name" - Used to express surprise, shock, or confusion

Often appears as...

  • what in god's name
  • who in god's name

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "in God’s/Heaven’s name"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emphasizes Shock

Heightens the expression of surprise or disbelief in a situation.

Illustration for Emphasizes Shock
In God's name, when did this happen?
LampPro Tip 2/3

Rhetorical Question

Often pairs with questions that don't expect literal answers, just to show astonishment.

Illustration for Rhetorical Question
What in God's name were they thinking?
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Literal

It's a figure of speech and does not involve religious context in regular conversations.

Illustration for Not Literal
How in God's name did this mistake occur?
Visual representation of the word "In God’s/Heaven’s name"

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